Resurrecting the workplace: The battle for remote work

Over the past few years, the way we work has undergone a significant transformation. While many employees have grown accustomed to remote work, which offers its advantages, it also presents challenges for employers seeking to bring their teams back to the office.

The struggle to reintegrate employees into the office setting may seem daunting, but we’re here to assure you that it’s not an insurmountable task. In this blog post, we’ll explore how into make the office an enticing place for employees and discuss what employers can do to encourage the transition back to the office.

Even Zoom are back in the office

Zoom rode the work-from-home wave and enabled millions of people to do their jobs, classes and socialise remotely during the peak of the pandemic. However, as of August 2023, they are now calling their staff back to the office, marking the beginning of a trend among tech companies urging employees to return to the office.

Employees have enjoyed the flexibility of working from the comfort of their homes, saving time and money on commuting, and enjoying a better work-life balance. However, as life has gradually returned to normal post-pandemic, employers are eager to reestablish a sense of camaraderie, collaboration and culture from working together in the office. 

Studies from Microsoft have found that employee productivity tends to increase when working from the office, and 85% of leaders expressed their difficulty believing employees were productive during hybrid work. According to ExpressVPN, uncertainty and unease about what employees do is why employers are keen to strike a balance and encourage the return to the office. 

What do employees think about returning to the office?  

In a recent survey, 65% of workers expressed a preference for permanent remote work. They cite the flexibility, autonomy, and work-life balance provided by remote work as key factors. Some surveys have even revealed that employees would consider leaving their jobs if workplace flexibility were taken away. However, a study found that relationships with colleagues, including a sense of belonging and appreciation, motivated employees to return to the office.

Why create a welcoming office office

A welcoming office environment is not a myth; with some small adjustments and considerations in your new office space, you can create a more inviting and productive workspace for your employees.

 Numerous studies have demonstrated how our surroundings influence our behaviour and efficiency. A welcoming office decor can deliver a unique experience for both clients and employees, resulting in improved moods, increased energy, and higher morale when you invest wisely in a productive office environment.

 You can encourage interaction and creativity by designing collaborative zones where employees can brainstorm or hold informal meetings. Organising meaningful team-building events can further help employees connect and socialise, giving them a tangible reason to be in the office. 

Flexibility is key

Ultimately, the key to successfully bringing employees back to the office is offering flexibility and creating an environment catering to their needs and desires. Striking a balance between in-office and remote work can help meet employees’ needs and wants, unlocking the door to a successful return to the office.

 Providing flexible work arrangements that incorporate both in-office and remote work allows employees to enjoy the benefits of both worlds, fostering a sense of autonomy and choice.